Nissan Fifth-Wheel towing

Q: I have a 2012 Nissan Titan Pro-4X and we would like to upgrade our trailer. We have found one we’re really interested in, the Cougar X-Lite 29RBS fifth-wheel, and it says it is half-ton towable. The salesman says no problem, of course. I know I would have to install a fifth-wheel hitch in the truck, but I would like to be sure it will tow the load before we make this purchase. I hope maybe you can help me be sure my Nissan truck will be able to tow this. The truck has a max tow rating of 9,300 pounds.Michael Southard, Reidsville, N.C.

A: We couldn’t find weight specifics on your 2012 trailer, Michael, but the 2013 model of that unit has a combined “shipping weight” and “carrying capacity” weight of 10,000 pounds. Keystone does not publish the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and that would be a big help if we had it.

It looks like the trailer, fully loaded, would be too heavy for your truck. You’re better off to select one that has a GVWR of 9,300 pounds or less, which means even if you don’t overload it, you’ll still be within your towing capacity. Remember, you’ll be adding fluids and cargo on top of that shipping weight, plus that shipping weight is an average posted for that trailer model, but each trailer will be a bit different, and the weight figure does not account for assorted factory- or dealer-installed options that also add weight. You’re really better off to be on the safe side and choose something smaller.

Remember you’ll also need to consider the question of towing a fifth-wheel with a short-box truck.– Jeff Johnston

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